"Assessing Israel's Progress in Eliminating Hamas Six Months After the Conflict"

Israel is likely to face an agonizing and politically treacherous campaign to root out Hamas militants in the densely populated city of Rafah, Gaza, as it seeks to secure the release of 130 hostages. The operation, expected to start around Passover, will be more surgical and circumscribed due to international pressure and criticism. Experts believe the battle over Rafah is critical for Israel's long-term safety, as victory would mean shutting down the corridor used by Hamas to import weapons. The fight is expected to rely heavily on precision drones and special operations ground forces and could last several weeks or months.